Louisiana Purchase State Park — Attraction in Helena-West Helena

My mom and I had the unique opportunity to visit when snow covered the boardwalk, and the swamp was entirely frozen over. I’ve been to many swamps but never one frozen solid.

The cold made the park incredibly peaceful. Only met one couple on the short boardwalk. Otherwise, no life forms to be seen. The animals must have been too cold to make an appearance. We arrived late in the day and got to witness the sun setting through the pretty trees.

The Water Tupelo trees (and a few bald cypress) were stunning and reminded me why I love the South so much. It was neat to imagine the people from days past who erected the monument in such a interesting location. (Seriously right in the middle of a swamp?!)

No facilities or fees to enter. Two porta potties by the boardwalk entrance are the only services.

The road getting there was narrow and a little rough. We saw literally thousands of snow geese, a possum, and an armadillo on...

I visited here in mid-June, and it may be different other times of the year, but I thought this is one of the better historical parks I have ever visited. It was quiet, clean, extremely well marked with signage all around the boardwalk, and felt so tranquil and peaceful I would go back regularly, if I lived nearby.

The boardwalk was clean, well maintained and very safe, and while some in our group had problems with bugs, I did not. I knew a tiny bit about the Louisiana Purchase from school many years ago, but the signs were clearly designed for educational purposes.

I encourage you to go. I felt like I was in a majestic cathedral...

We have passed the entrance to this place many times without stopping. Today, we stopped, and I'm so glad we did. This park is the place where the first survey marker was placed after we purchased this land from France. All land deeds and surveys reference back to this point.

This is a swamp loaded with beautiful cypress trees. It really is stunning with a boardwalk to guide you along above the dark waters below.

Great interpretive signs along the way to tell you about this land purchase and the animals that call this place home.

Don't pass this place by like we have done in the past. Vault toilets are available at...